Unveiling the Murder Capital of Canada: Homicide Rates Explained

Some cities in Canada have extremely high reported homicide rates. It is alarming, and people who want to visit or relocate should pay special attention to the recent crime rates.

In this article, we will name the murder capital of Canada. We will share the recent statistics of the top 10 cities with the highest homicide rates. We will also explain the reasons behind it and share some safety tips.

What City Has the Most Homicides This Year?

Based on the most recent 2024 homicide data, Winnipeg, Manitoba, recorded 43 homicides, among the highest totals for a major city. However, to answer "What City Has the Most Homicides This Year?" fairly, we must examine the rate rather than the raw count. The rate accounts for population size, revealing where violence is most concentrated relative to the number of people.

The national homicide rate is approximately 2.05 per 100,000 people. Cities with rates significantly exceeding this are often in the spotlight. A high per capita rate indicates a more acute, localized public safety crisis that impacts the community's daily life and sense of security.

Thunder Bay, Ontario, frequently contends for the highest per capita rate due to its smaller population and persistent challenges. In 2024, with 8 homicides, its estimated homicide rate per 1000 residents becomes starkly high when calculated, often placing it at the top of this grim list. This makes it a primary candidate for the "murder capital" designation in recent analyses.

10 Cities with Highest Homicide Rates in Canada

The following analysis shifts focus from total homicide counts to the rate per 100,000 residents, a crucial metric that reveals the concentration of risk.

Thunder Bay, Ontario

With 8 homicides in 2024 and a population of nearly 110,000, Thunder Bay's homicide rate is estimated at approximately 7.27 per 100,000. This is over three times the national average, highlighting severe localized issues.

Systemic challenges and social disparities contribute profoundly to this statistic. The city's rate consistently places it at the center of national discussions on violent crime.

Winnipeg, Manitoba

Winnipeg reported 43 homicides in 2024. With a population of about 830,000, its homicide rate is estimated at 5.18 per 100,000.

This high rate points to ongoing struggles with gang violence and socioeconomic inequality. It remains one of Canada's most prominent cities for violent crime.

Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Saskatoon recorded 14 homicides in 2024. With a population nearing 285,000, its estimated homicide rate is 4.91 per 100,000.

The city grapples with issues similar to other Prairie centers. Community and policing initiatives continue to address these persistent challenges.

Edmonton, Alberta

Edmonton had 36 homicides in 2024. Its population of roughly 1.05 million leads to an estimated homicide rate of 3.43 per 100,000.

While the total is high, the rate is moderated by the city's large size. Violence is often linked to organized crime and drug trade conflicts.

Regina, Saskatchewan

Regina reported 6 homicides in 2024. With a population of about 235,000, its estimated homicide rate is 2.55 per 100,000.

The rate remains above the national average, reflecting ongoing public safety concerns. Economic and social factors are key areas for intervention.

Vancouver, British Columbia

Vancouver had 37 homicides in 2024. A population of approximately 2.65 million results in an estimated homicide rate of 1.40 per 100,000.

This is below the national average, but targeted violence in specific areas persists. The city's port and urban density shape its unique crime profile.

Calgary, Alberta

Calgary recorded 23 homicides in 2024. With a population of nearly 1.33 million, the estimated homicide rate is 1.73 per 100,000.

The rate is relatively low for a major city, though it demands attention. Policing strategies focus on prevention and targeted response.

Hamilton, Ontario

Hamilton reported 10 homicides in 2024. Its population of about 790,000 leads to an estimated homicide rate of 1.27 per 100,000.

This rate is below the national average. Violence in the city often clusters in neighborhoods with higher levels of deprivation.

Toronto, Ontario

Toronto recorded 133 homicides in 2024. With a vast population of 6.8 million, its estimated homicide rate is 1.96 per 100,000.

This is slightly below the national average, demonstrating how large populations dilute per capita rates. Crime is not evenly distributed across the city.

Montréal, Québec

Montréal had 58 homicides in 2024. A population of about 4.3 million gives an estimated homicide rate of 1.35 per 100,000.

This is one of the lowest rates among major North American cities. Violence is often concentrated and connected to specific criminal networks.

Why These Cities Are Called Murder Capital of Canada?

• This label stems from a complex web of socioeconomic failures. Deep poverty, housing insecurity, and limited economic opportunity create environments where desperation and crime can thrive.

• The illicit drug trade, particularly involving potent synthetic opioids, is a primary engine of violence.

• Gang conflicts over territory and distribution networks lead to retaliatory shootings.
  Furthermore, inadequate mental health and addiction services leave vulnerable individuals without critical support, sometimes with fatal consequences.

• Geographic and economic factors, such as being transportation hubs or experiencing industrial decline, also contribute to instability.

• Effective solutions must look beyond policing. Sustainable safety requires investment in the root causes: education, economic development, community-led healing, and accessible healthcare for all.

Safety Tips for Residents and Visitors

• Your first line of defense is proactive awareness. Be mindful of your surroundings, especially in unfamiliar areas or after dark. Trust your instincts and remove yourself from situations that feel unsafe.

• Avoid displaying flashy electronics or jewelry that could attract unwanted attention. Always plan your routes and stick to well-lit, populated pathways.

• Securing your property is a powerful deterrent. Ensure all doors and windows have robust, modern locks. For comprehensive protection, consider the Reolink TrackMix PoE. This advanced 4K Dual-Lens PTZ Camera with Auto Tracking offers unparalleled surveillance. Its Wide-Angle & Telephoto Lenses and Dual View, Dual Tracking capability provide wider coverage.

• Build strong community connections for mutual support. Participate in or establish a neighborhood watch program.

• When traveling, research your destination, heed local advisories, and inform someone of your plans. Using personal safety apps that share your location with trusted contacts can provide an additional layer of security and peace of mind.

FAQs

Is Thunder Bay the murder capital of Canada?

Yes, Thunder Bay has frequently recorded the highest homicide rate per capita in recent years. It holds this grim title based on Statistics Canada data. Its rate is consistently several times the national average.

Is Winnipeg the murder capital of Canada?

Winnipeg often has one of the highest homicide rates among major Canadian cities. While it frequently vies for the top spot, Thunder Bay's per capita rate has been higher. Winnipeg's total number of homicides is often among the nation's highest.

What is the murder rate in Canada by gender?

Victims of homicide in Canada are overwhelmingly male, typically around 70-75%. Perpetrators of homicide are also predominantly male, accounting for nearly 90% of accused persons. This highlights a significant gender-based disparity in lethal violence.

What is the #1 safest city in Canada?

Quebec City is widely considered the safest large city in Canada based on its consistently low Crime Severity Index.

Conclusion

To get the right murder capital of Canada, you have to look at the homicide rate, population, and take other factors into consideration. It will help you decide which city is the most dangerous. We have shared the top 10 cities with the highest homicide rates. For people's safety, we have shared some tips to help avoid becoming a crime victim.